Largest mammal to build a nest

Share

The largest mammal to construct a nest is the gorilla (Gorilla gorilla) of Africa, where adult males measure between 1.7-1.8 m (5 ft 6 in - 6 ft) tall and weigh 136-227 kg (300-500 lb). Everyday, the gorillas each create a new ground nest from the surrounding vegetation. The nests are circular and typically measure 1 m (3 ft 3 in) in diameter.

Some of the lighter members of the gorilla troop actually build the nests up in the trees where branches fork. Each gorilla makes his or her own separate one, although infant gorillas share with their mothers. Often gorillas make a nest during the day for resting in, which will be different from the one they sleep in at night. Each nest is only used once. The largest subspecies is the mountain gorilla (Gorilla gorilla beringei) of Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, of which the males are known as 'silverbacks'.

Pic: Alamy

All records listed on our website are current and up-to-date. For a full list of record titles, please use our Record Application Search. (You will be need to register / login for access)